<Whatcha Might Not Know are Wednesday posts that are just that…something quick that you may or may not know about me, my family, my neighborhood, my city, my world, etc.>
 |
| Image Source |
Most of you know that I’ve lived in both Nashville and Birmingham. Down in the south. And some of you make fun of me for my constant use of “y’all”. But here is why it’s completely ingrained into my vocabulary.
When we moved to Birmingham, I became a Corporate Trainer for a large bank. And although I had already been in Training and Development in Nashville, I’d have to say that the expectations were much higher with the Birmingham job and I was observed much more. Immediately I was given the feedback that my use of the “northern” phrase “you guys” was extremely offensive to women. What? Seriously? Apparently so. I received constant feedback on changing “you guys” to “y’all” and after three years, it stuck.
I’ve tried changing it now that I’m not in the south, but just can’t. “You guys”, “You”, “All of you” and “You all” just won’t flow anymore. So “y’all” are just going to have to put up with it.
Y’all hear me out there?
You guys is offensive?? That is so funny. I go back and forth. When I lived in Michigan if I ever slipped up and said “yall” people always looked at me like a totally hillbilly!
Hah! The same thing happens to me! I say y’all here in Michigan from living in Texas and they just laaaauuuuuugh. But I like to make people laugh, so… 😉
Tricia, I am so flattered and happy that you went back and started reading my blog from the beginning. It means so much to me to know that I could touch your heart even in some small way.
Enjoy the rest of your week!
-dwija
I think I’m cool with “y’all” … now “all y’all” is another story!
I definitely get the “hillbilly look” all the time. But now I just laugh. And I agree that “all ya’ll” is a bit much!
That’s funny that people were offended by “you guys”. I’m from Pennsylvania where the PA Dutch equivalent is “yous”. I can’t stand that one. And now that I have lived in the South (VA) for 8 years, I have just recently caught myself saying “ya’ll” and I feel kinda proud about it!
I once got lectured by some Girl Scout moms (in front of the girls) while doing a workshop for the troop for calling them “you guys” when they are clearly YOUNG WOMEN, NOT BOYS. How could I possibly work for the preeminent organization for girls and women and demean them like that?!? And its instances like that which make me glad that I work with girls only (no parents) now!
Funny!
I won’t notice your ya’ll if you won’t notice my ain’t.